Sheffield United: Scougall blow but hope for Brayford

James Shield

Nigel Clough, the Sheffield United manager, has confirmed Stefan Scougall will miss the second-leg of his team’s League One play-off semi-final against Swindon Town on Monday.

John Brayford (back) and Scougall (hamstring) were both undergoing treatment last night after suffering injuries during United’s controversial defeat at Bramall Lane.

Clough, who was critical of referee Darren Bond’s performance after the match, suggested Brayford could feature in some capacity when United attempt to overturn a 2-1 deficit.

But, speaking at the Redtooth Academy this afternoon, he revealed Scougall will miss trip to Wiltshire and the division showpiece at Wembley should United progress.

“Scouggs is out, yes,” Clough said. “It’s his hamstring. John maybe.

“That’s Stefan’s season gone now. Even if we were still in the season itself, he’d be looking at three to four weeks. It’s all about, for him, getting ready for pre-season.

“John, we’ll see how he is.”

Brayford’s absence in particular could prove a major headache for United given the fact it would cause further disruption to an already unsettled back four. Chris Basham is most likely to deputise at centre-half or, should Clough prefer to keep the summer signing from Blackpool in midfield, Craig Alcock could be recalled. Jose Baxter, who missed Thursday’s match due to illness, should be available for selection.

“The feeling is still there,” Clough said. “To play like that and come off with a defeat was very hard to take.

“At the moment, it’s still fresh but we’ll speak to the players and get them to move on. Because we are still in the tie. Very much so.”